Climbing Dark Star

Climbing Dark Star, A Sierra Classic

Dark Star is one of the longest routes in High Sierra. It is the biggest line up Temple Crag.

The pitches in Dark Star are 20. The first 8 pitches are comparable to Yosemite’s Lower Cathedral East Buttress. The first pitch of the Dark Star is the crux. The next 7 pitches are of sustained 5.8-5.10 climbing. After this, the route takes a winding course on easy 5th class. Image Source

The pitches of Dark Star are-

Rack

P1-5.10b

P2-5.8

P3-5.9

P3-5.7

P4/5-5.8

P6-5.8-ish

P7-3rd/4th

P9-5.7

P10-5.7

P11-More 4th

P12-14 (5th)

P15-More 4th and 5th

P16- 4th Top out on Ridge

Descent

How to reach:

By Air:

The nearest is Reno/Tahoe International Airport to High Sierra climbs. From the airport, rent a car to go to Dark Star, High Sierra. It will take about 2-3.5 hrs to reach Dark Star climbing point.

You can also fly to any of the International Airports in Oakland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Fresno or Sacramento.

By Train:

Train facilities are available to reach High Sierra. From here, take a taxi, rental car or bus to go to the Dark Star Pitches.

By Road:

You can reach Dark Star easily by rental car from the Eastern Sierra towns like Big Pine, Bishop etc.

Best time to visit: Between June and October

Professional Service: Professional instructors and guides are available